DNA extraction from spider webs

Many spider species produce webs that represent a potential non-invasive source of DNA for conservation genetic analysis. Reported here is the successful isolation of target DNA from members of two families (Theraphosidae and Pholcidae) using a standard CTAB phenol–chloroform–isoamyl protocol. The isolated DNA was of sufficient quality to permit routine PCR amplification and sequencing of mtDNA COI fragments of various sizes (maximum 710 bp attempted). This adds to other studies in demonstrating that webbing offers an excellent resource for genetic studies of spiders across families. Applications of the technique include species identification and monitoring, faunistic surveys, population connectivity, subpopulation structuring, and ex situ breeding programs.